Akufo-Addo Pardons Defunct Capital Bank’s Ato Essien and Eight Others
President’s controversial decision sparks debate over justice and the rule of law in Ghana.
- Ato Essien, former CEO of Capital Bank, granted pardon after serving time for financial crimes
- Pardon list includes individuals convicted of serious offenses, such as murder and human trafficking
- Public backlash questions the fairness of the pardon and its potential impact on the justice system
Outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo has sparked heated discussions after granting a presidential pardon to Ato Essien, the former CEO of Capital Bank, who was serving a 15-year sentence for financial crimes linked to the bank’s collapse.
The pardon, announced in a letter from the President’s office, includes a range of individuals convicted of various offenses, such as Beatrice Ofori, a 64-year-old woman convicted of human trafficking, and Akwasi Alhassan, who has been imprisoned for murder for over 30 years.
The move has drawn criticism, with many questioning the fairness of the criteria used for granting clemency, particularly in cases involving serious crimes.
Critics argue that this could undermine the integrity of the justice system and erode public trust.
Read the full statement from the outgoing President’s office below:
